🎸 Welcome to our guide on the best beginner metal songs to play on guitar! If you are just starting your metal guitar journey, you might be looking for songs that are not only exciting to play but also suitable for beginners. In this article, we will introduce you to seven fantastic metal songs that will help you develop your skills and discover the thrilling world of metal music. So grab your guitar and let’s dive in!
Introduction
Metal music is known for its powerful riffs, intricate solos, and intense energy. As a beginner, it can be challenging to find songs that are within your skill level while still capturing the essence of the genre. Luckily, there are several beginner-friendly metal songs that will help you build a strong foundation and ignite your passion for metal guitar playing.
Before we jump into the song recommendations, it is important to note that practicing these songs consistently and with proper technique is crucial for your progress. Take your time, start slow, and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable. And remember, always have fun and enjoy the process of learning!
1. “Enter Sandman” by Metallica
🤘 One of the most iconic metal songs of all time, “Enter Sandman” is perfect for beginners who want to get a taste of Metallica’s signature sound. The main riff is relatively simple, combining power chords and palm-muted notes. As you progress, you can also learn the melodic guitar solo, which will enhance your lead playing skills.
2. “Crazy Train” by Ozzy Osbourne
🚂 “Crazy Train” showcases the legendary guitar skills of Randy Rhoads. The main riff is a combination of power chords and fast palm-muted notes, providing an excellent opportunity to work on your rhythm and picking technique. Additionally, the song features a memorable solo that will challenge you in a melodic and technical way.
3. “Breaking the Law” by Judas Priest
🚓 With its catchy main riff and straightforward structure, “Breaking the Law” is a great song for beginners to learn. This classic Judas Priest track offers a chance to master power chords and syncopated palm muting. The solo section also introduces you to bending and vibrato techniques, essential skills for any aspiring metal guitarist.
4. “Paranoid” by Black Sabbath
😱 “Paranoid” is a must-learn song for any metal enthusiast. The main riff is simple yet powerful, allowing beginners to focus on their rhythm and palm muting. As you advance, you can explore Tony Iommi’s bluesy guitar solo, which showcases his unique style and phrasing.
5. “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple
🔥 “Smoke on the Water” is one of the most recognizable guitar riffs in rock history. This timeless classic by Deep Purple is an excellent starting point for beginners due to its simplicity and catchy melody. Mastering this riff will enhance your coordination and finger strength.
6. “Ace of Spades” by Motörhead
♠️ “Ace of Spades” is an adrenaline-pumping song that will introduce you to the high energy of metal. The main riff, based on power chords, is catchy and fun to play. As you delve deeper, you can challenge yourself with the fast-paced solo and learn to incorporate speed into your playing.
7. “Symphony of Destruction” by Megadeth
🎵 “Symphony of Destruction” is a great song to develop your palm muting technique and precision. The main riff is relatively easy to grasp, making it a perfect choice for beginners. Additionally, the song features intricate guitar solos that will push your skills to the next level.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Playing Beginner Metal Songs
Advantages
1. 🎯 Improve Your Technique: Playing metal songs will enhance your picking, palm muting, and coordination skills. The fast and intricate nature of metal music will push you to develop speed and accuracy.
2. 🤘 Learn Iconic Riffs: Most metal songs are renowned for their memorable riffs. By learning these songs, you will acquire a repertoire of classic guitar parts that will impress your friends and fellow musicians.
3. 🎸 Develop Your Ear for Heavy Music: Metal songs often utilize unconventional chord progressions and tonalities. By playing metal, you’ll expand your musical vocabulary and train your ear to recognize heavy sounds.
4. 💪 Build Stamina and Strength: Metal songs require a higher level of physical endurance due to their fast-paced nature. Regularly practicing these songs will increase your finger strength and overall stamina.
5. 🌟 Boost Your Confidence: Successfully playing a metal song, even as a beginner, provides a great sense of accomplishment. It will boost your confidence and motivate you to tackle more challenging pieces.
6. 🎶 Explore Different Subgenres: Metal is a vast genre with numerous subgenres. By learning different metal songs, you can explore various styles, such as thrash, power metal, or progressive metal, and discover your preferences.
7. 🎵 Join a Metal Community: Metal music has a passionate and supportive community. By learning and playing metal songs, you can connect with like-minded individuals, join bands, or even start performing live.
Disadvantages
1. ⏳ Technical Difficulty: While there are beginner-friendly metal songs, the genre as a whole can be technically challenging. Some advanced metal songs may require complex techniques, such as sweeping or tapping, which can be overwhelming for beginners.
2. 🔊 Volume and Distortion: Metal music is often played at high volumes and uses distortion effects. This might not be suitable for all environments, especially if you’re practicing at home or in shared spaces.
3. 🤚 Physical Strain: The physical demands of metal guitar playing can lead to fatigue or strain, especially if you haven’t developed the necessary finger strength and stamina yet. It’s essential to practice proper hand and wrist positioning to avoid injuries.
4. ⏰ Time Investment: Mastering metal songs, even at a beginner level, requires dedicated practice and time commitment. It may take longer to progress compared to simpler genres.
5. 🎸 Limited Musical Diversity: Metal music, especially the more extreme subgenres, can be characterized by its aggressive and intense sound. If you prefer more mellow or melodic styles, metal might not be the best fit for your musical taste.
6. 📚 Theory Complexity: Some metal songs incorporate complex musical theory elements, such as modal interchange or odd time signatures. While this can be exciting for some, it may pose a challenge for beginners who haven’t yet delved into music theory.
7. 💰 Cost of Equipment: Metal guitarists often use specific gear, such as high-gain amplifiers or distortion pedals, to achieve the desired tone. Investing in this equipment can be costly for beginners on a limited budget.
Table: Best Beginner Metal Songs Guitar
| Artist | Song | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Metallica | Enter Sandman | Easy |
| Ozzy Osbourne | Crazy Train | Intermediate |
| Judas Priest | Breaking the Law | Easy |
| Black Sabbath | Paranoid | Easy |
| Deep Purple | Smoke on the Water | Easy |
| Motörhead | Ace of Spades | Intermediate |
| Megadeth | Symphony of Destruction | Easy |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How long does it take to learn a beginner metal song?
Learning a beginner metal song can vary depending on your dedication and practice routine. With consistent practice, it is possible to learn a simple metal song in a few weeks or less.
2. Do I need an electric guitar to play metal songs?
While an electric guitar is more commonly used in metal music due to its ability to produce heavy and distorted tones, you can still play some metal songs on an acoustic guitar with proper technique and adjustments.
3. Should I learn to read sheet music to play metal songs?
Reading sheet music is not mandatory for playing metal songs. Most metal guitarists rely on tablature notation, which is easier to understand and widely available online for popular songs.
4. How can I improve my speed and accuracy while playing metal songs?
Improving speed and accuracy requires consistent practice and focusing on proper technique. Start slowly and gradually increase the tempo, use a metronome, and practice challenging sections repeatedly.
5. Are there any metal songs suitable for acoustic guitar?
Yes, there are metal songs that can be played on acoustic guitar. Look for acoustic versions or adaptations of metal songs, or explore acoustic-driven subgenres like folk metal or acoustic metal.
6. What are some recommended guitar exercises for metal beginners?
Some essential exercises for metal beginners include palm muting drills, alternate picking exercises, string skipping, and practicing power chords in different positions on the fretboard.
7. Can I play metal songs on a classical guitar?
While classical guitars are not typically associated with metal music, you can still play some metal songs on a classical guitar. However, keep in mind that the tone and projection might be different compared to an electric or acoustic guitar.
8. How can I develop my own style as a metal guitarist?
Developing your own style takes time and experimentation. Start by learning songs from different metal subgenres and exploring various techniques. As you gain experience, try incorporating your influences into your playing and experimenting with different tones and effects.
9. What are the best resources for learning metal songs on guitar?
There are numerous resources available for learning metal songs. Online platforms like YouTube and guitar tutorial websites offer video lessons and tablature for a wide range of metal songs. Additionally, books and instructional DVDs can also be useful.
10. Should I take guitar lessons to learn metal songs?
Taking guitar lessons can be highly beneficial, especially for beginners. A skilled guitar teacher can provide guidance on technique, offer personalized feedback, and help you progress faster. However, self-study and online resources can also be effective if you are disciplined and motivated.
11. What are some essential guitar effects for playing metal songs?
Some common guitar effects used in metal music include distortion, overdrive, delay, reverb, and wah-wah. Experimenting with these effects can help shape your desired tone and add depth to your playing.
12. Can I play metal songs on a 7 or 8-string guitar?
Absolutely! Many metal guitarists use extended-range guitars with 7 or 8 strings to explore lower tunings and expand their sonic range. However, it is important to note that these guitars might require some adjustment in playing technique compared to a standard 6-string guitar.
13. Are there any female metal guitarists I should check out?
Definitely! There are many talented female metal guitarists who have made significant contributions to the genre. Some notable names include Orianthi, Nita Strauss, Lita Ford, and Jennifer Batten.
Conclusion
🤘 Congratulations on reaching the end of our guide to the best beginner metal songs on guitar! We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights and inspiration to kickstart your metal guitar journey. Remember, mastering metal music takes time and practice, so don’t get discouraged if progress feels slow at times. Keep persevering, embrace the challenges, and most importantly, have fun along the way!
If you’re ready to take your guitar skills to the next level, we encourage you to start learning one of the songs mentioned in this article. Dive into the world of metal, explore different subgenres, and let your passion for the genre guide you on this exciting musical path.
Rock on, and may your metal guitar adventure be filled with epic riffs and powerful solos!
Closing Statement
🎸 Thank you for taking the time to read our in-depth guide on the best beginner metal songs on guitar. We hope you have found it informative and inspiring. However, it is essential to note that learning any musical instrument requires patience, dedication, and practice.
📚 The information presented in this article is intended for educational purposes only. While we have taken great care to provide accurate and up-to-date content, we cannot guarantee the effectiveness or suitability of the recommended songs for every individual. Every guitarist’s journey is unique, so feel free to adapt the suggestions to your own preferences and learning style.
🎵 Always consult with a professional guitar teacher or experienced guitarist if you have any doubts or questions regarding your technique, gear choices, or musical development. They can provide personalized advice and guidance tailored to your specific needs.
🤘 Keep on rocking, stay passionate about music, and enjoy the incredible journey that awaits you as a metal guitarist! Remember, the most important aspect of playing music is to have fun and express yourself. Happy playing!